Bruno Fernandes has missed Manchester United’s last two Premier League games, and the captain is set to remain sidelined for the upcoming match at Leeds as well.
Ruben Amorim is waiting on the return of several key players, with AFCON also keeping Amad Diallo, Bryan Mbeumo and Noussair Mazraoui out of action. That has stretched the squad even thinner over a busy festive period.
United have struggled with injuries this season, which isn’t new for them. Amorim’s plans have been disrupted by a lack of options in midfield and ongoing changes to defensive setups, while also giving opportunities to several Academy players making their first-team debuts, including Jack Fletcher.
Even when things weren’t going well for United in previous seasons, Fernandes was often the player who could turn games around or spark something positive. Amorim is feeling that absence now.
Despite taking up a deeper role alongside Casemiro this season, Fernandes has still managed five goals and seven assists in the Premier League. His creativity remains crucial to United’s attack, which has clearly suffered without him.
Amorim will be trying to put together a lineup that can take three points from Leeds, but it won’t be easy without Fernandes – he’s one of those players who always makes an impact when available.
Questions growing inside Man Utd squad over Ruben Amorim’s tactics
It’s been a season full of obstacles for United, and while results have picked up since Amorim’s early struggles, the team still hasn’t found its stride in the league.
United are sixth in the table and eyeing a Champions League push, but that will take a level of consistency they haven’t managed yet – especially when dropping points against teams like Wolves.
The report suggests players were confused by the tactical changes against Wolves. The previous week had seen better organisation with a back four, but Amorim switched back to a 3-4-2-1 setup. Patrick Dorgu also moved from right to left wing despite having played well on the opposite side against Newcastle.
The absence of Fernandes has reportedly played a role in this confusion. Even though he’s not always the loudest voice, Fernandes is said to be an important figure for Amorim behind the scenes. His absence has left more room for players to question instructions.
This suggests that Amorim might not have enough authority in the dressing room without Fernandes around. It may also explain why he was so keen to keep hold of his compatriot over the summer.
Bruno Fernandes latest injury update
Fernandes has been out of action since picking up a hamstring injury during United’s 2-1 loss to Aston Villa last month.
Amorim hasn’t provided a clear timeline for his return, but there’s no doubt he’ll be hoping to have him back sooner rather than later.
There were even light-hearted suggestions that Fernandes tried to talk his way into the squad for the Wolves match, but the club weren’t willing to take any risks with his recovery.
The expectation is that he’ll be back in January, although an exact date hasn’t been set yet.
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